BAT Spring Break Masterclass

In the heat of deadlines, with essays and word counts looming ominously over our heads, it would be a vast understatement to say the current St Andrews student is in need of a break. The Bartenders Against Temperance (BAT) Spring Break event provided this relief, hosting a fun, innovative, and memorable event. As George Davies wisely stated, “The fact the event sold out so quickly is a testament to how badly people need spring break.”

Despite this new spring break theme, it was also BAT’s second time hosting an event at New Co. While previous events I have attended have been hosted at the Rogue, I really liked the change of scenery and appreciated the more relaxed, less cramped set-up. Moreover, to begin the night, each guest was welcomed with a tropical orange shot. The shot, made by Katie Campbell, consisted of triple sec, peach schnapps, white rum, and tropical juice. Next, the guests moved between four stations featuring very happy, springy, cocktails. I have rated the drinks in order from 1 being the worst and 4 being the best.

Station one: Katie’s Spritz Hugo

Rating: 2/4

Consists of: Gin, elderflower, mint and prosecco

Description: This drink was super refreshing and transported me to a pool-side resort. While the ratio of alcohol was excellent and not overpowering, I’m not the biggest prosecco person. The overwhelming prosecco taste did not do it for me. I liked the drink, just wished that there was less prosecco and more of a minty taste.

Station Two: George’s Paloma

Source: Cassi Ainsworth-Grace

Rating: 3/4

Consists of: Tequila, grapefruit juice, agave and rosemary

Description: I loved the smoky rosemary taste in this cocktail. The garnish of setting the rosemary on fire really brought out the flavour and added a fun twist to the drink.

Station Three: Asa’s Strawberry Margarita with Hibiscus Foam

Rating : 4/4

Consists of: Had a foamy top made from egg whites, sugar and hibiscus, and also featured a margarita cocktail mix infused with strawberry

Description: Not only was this drink super Instagramable, it was also so yummy. The foam tasted like a frosting. The drink was a light pink with a faded pink top, and quickly gained approval of the entire masterclass. This was easily the most drinkable cocktail, and the best tasting.

Food Break !

Mid-way through the cocktail stations there was a short break for some nachos, burrito bites, and some tacos. With all the booze floating around, this food was well-received and much needed!

Source: Cassi Ainsworth-Grace

Station Four: Kyle’s Gin Basil Smash

Source: Cassi Ainsworth-Grace

Rating: 1/ 4

Consists of: Basil, gin, and lemon juice

Description: While many masterclass goers will disagree with me, I was not a fan of this drink. The overwhelming basil taste made me question whether I was drinking a cocktail or drinking pesto pasta. Though I appreciate the appeal, I will stick to my sweet, foamy cocktails.

While testing the cocktails at each station, I had the chance to speak with some of the committee members and participants. BAT member Mikaela Grant raved about Katie’s Spritz Hugo. Mikaela especially liked the refreshing mint after taste that accompanied each sip of the cocktail. Speaking to some other members at each station, it seemed most members were really excited to learn how to make these new spring themed cocktails. Thus, the BAT event was accomplishing its goal, as committee member Talia Maggs-Rapport put it, “serving as a nice break for students during this hectic deadline season.”

Judging from the smiles on members faces as they sipped their cocktails, laughed with friends, and geeked-out over the new recipes they were learning, it is safe to say this was another hit for BAT. My only real critique would be that the club should try and incorporate more men. It seemed almost 90% of the members that turned up were women. It is great to see this level of girl-power, however BAT should make sure they are reaching their fullest audience possible.

In other news, look out for the BAT AGM this coming Wednesday. If you are a paying member of BAT, come down to the Rogue at 7:30pm to vote/ run for 2019-2020 committee positions.

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